Celebrate the ordinary...everyday

It's Tuesday, and there are 15 things on the "to-do" list. The list has a several items that I rather avoid. There's also laundry upstairs that needs folding...

Lists and Laundry. Our days are filled to the brim with burdens. They often become our only focus. It's easy to feel that life is run by lists and not loves. Our careers and goals are ambitiously begun to allow us someday enjoy the "American Dream"–but while we work hard for this elusive "someday" is there time to enjoy today?

There has to be time for celebration everyday. I'm not talking about a balloon filled, clown infested festival. Just something ordinary. Something satisfying...Daily.

For example, today there are fresh berries for cereal, the office windows are open and the birds are singing, puppies are sleeping nearby, and plans for a bike ride is promised after the office is closed. Realizing, anticipating and appreciating these little joys provide a YAY in my day as the to-do list is accomplished.

Celebrate–something–everyday. 
It doesn't have to be a ticker-tape parade–just something that brings pleasure and contentment. Also (and most importantly) the moment must be savored and appreciated in both the anticipation and the participation. In other words–be aware of the fun! Revel in the moment and this small celebration will outshine all the to-do's of the day. Make your glass half fun and make the glass a fine piece of stemware!

Here's a short list of my favorite everyday celebrations:
Warm crusty bread with good olive oil, pepper and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese
Family dinners
Homemade pizza
Candles with dinner
Chocolate
Slippers
Frosting (on anything)
Folded potato chips
My dogs
Ice cream on a hot day
Bike rides

Red wine in beautiful stemware

A good book and a moment to read

Nothing on this list has to be expensive or even needs to be scheduled. Anticipating, savoring, appreciating, reminiscing and chatting about an everyday celebration is much better than narrating the 15 things waiting impatiently on a to-do list.

To truly celebrate the tiny joys of life, it is important to realize little things are so enjoyable!

Life is everyday. Let's celebrate!
Have a bright day, indeed.

When stampeding in a creative direction—Hang on.

Cobwebs and dust bunnies have run riot in this little blog. I'm spending a bit of time today chasing the dust out of the corners to freshen up this uninhabited corner of the Internet. 

I've been slow to add bits of blather to my blog—I have been busy. My focus has been galloping in different directions.  

Here's a few things I've accomplished and can show without breaking confidentiality with a client.

So...what's my problem with getting to my blog? 

um.... Focus. 

Huh? How to you pick one thing to focus upon when there's so much to see and draw!

For me, it's a daily challenge to dedicate time on an inspiration without wondering if there's a better idea "out there" that should be explored. Starting new self-directed art is like riding a wild horse. I clumsily hang on for dear life as my creative ride lunges and lurches--galloping in directions unforeseen. I awkwardly attempt to keep my tush in the saddle, and wonder with brain pounding adrenaline--if the journey will end with a soft landing... and an idea worth keeping.

Having focus and some knowledge about how to control a wild ride would make the journey easier. Then again, there's a certain serendipity in the out-of-control creative romp that can provide moments of pure eureka. 

Here's to the untamed creativity that stampedes in all of us. 

Up for a ride today?